GoRuck’s Sleek, Mil-Spec Grade Travel Backpack Is a Steal Right Now

What’s arguably the best-looking iteration of the GR2 backpack is suddenly below $300, and we’re not sure if it’ll ever be re-released.

The top portion of the Huckberry x GoRuck GR2 Slick Backpack against a mustard yellow background.

By Gear Patrol

Published 3 hours ago

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The GoRuck GR2 has always been a streamlined and respected travel backpack. But recently, the brand collaborated with Huckberry to tweak several key design elements of the pack, creating what’s known as the “Slick” version.

It’s a pack that leans even further into minimalist styling while retaining the rugged build and smart organization that make the GR2 a favorite among one-bag travelers.

And now’s a rare chance to pick one up at a steep discount.

What’s So Slick About It?

The GoRuck Gr2 backpack in black shown against a grey background — The classic version of the GORUCK GR2 features bands of Molle webbing for attaching other items and an area for swapping on velcro patches.

GORUCK’s GR line of backpacks has long been on our list of Best Travel Backpacks for a reason. The brand’s bags are made in the USA, tough as nails and feature just enough functional pockets to keep things organized without over-cluttering internal pockets. GORUCK as a brand was also one of the early pioneers in promoting tactical minimalism aesthetics in bags.

The GR2 is the brand’s mid-sized pack, ideal as a carry-on bag, though not incredibly large if you want to use it as a daypack.

The so-called “Slick” variant of the GR2 is an exclusive riff designed in collaboration between GORUCK and Huckberry.

Huckberry X GORUCK GR2 Slick Backpack - 40L shown against a light grey background — The “slick” variant of the GR2 is defined by its minimal exterior that ditches the Molle webbing found on the original. It’s an exclusive collaboration between Huckberry and GORUCk.

It sets itself apart with a clean, understated exterior. Huckberry and GORUCK stripped away all external MOLLE webbing and the exterior patch area, streamlining its urban-ready aesthetic without sacrificing functionality. It still retains the internal hydration bladder port and a beefy top carry handle.

This refined design makes it equally at home navigating city streets, boardrooms, or rugged travel scenarios.

Key Travel Features

The front flap of the Huckberry X GORUCK GR2 Slick Backpack - 40L shown unzipped and laying flat — A mesh EDC organization flap is the biggest distinctions between the GR1 and GR2 beyond pure size. As Huckberry’s Ben O’Meara says, the upper zip EDC pocket “almost works like a dopp kit for the bag.”

The GR2’s clamshell opening allows the bag to lay flat when opened, making packing and organization easier. Inside, it’s divided into two compartments: a larger main section for clothes or bulkier items, and a second compartment with built-in organization, including zippered mesh pockets and slots for smaller items.

A silver laptop shown sliding into the back pocket of the Huckberry X GORUCK GR2 Slick Backpack - 40L — Unlike a lot of carry-on bags today, the GR2’s rear pocket is big enough to hold even a massive 17-inch laptop.

The bag’s rear features a separate padded laptop compartment designed to fit even the bulkiest rigs measuring up to 17 inches.

Additional design elements include silent, glove-friendly YKK zippers with paracord pulls, a reinforced top handle, and a removable internal frame sheet that helps support the bag’s structure under load.

While the bag lacks features like external water bottle pockets or a sternum strap, it includes a hydration bladder exit port and adjustable shoulder straps with thick padding for added comfort.

Pricing and Availability

Huckberry is selling this unique, exclusive bag for 30% off as part of the retailer’s summer sale, making it cheaper than even a new, smaller GR1.

But if the past is any indication, we don’t expect the deal stock for this bag to last long. In fact, it’s unclear whether the Slick version of the GR2 will continue to be part of Huckberry’s bag lineup, meaning this could be your last chance to snag the limited edition before it’s gone for good.